Utah Field House of Natural History | Vernal

Information

Landmark: Utah Field House of Natural History
City: Vernal
Country: USA Utah
Continent: North America

Utah Field House of Natural History, Vernal, USA Utah, North America

Glen Manor House is a historic Beaux-Arts mansion located in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The mansion is constructed primarily of granite and limestone. It features a symmetrical facade with a prominent central portico supported by Corinthian columns. The roof is slate, and the exterior walls are a light, neutral color. The building stands three stories tall, with a basement level. Architectural elements include elaborate cornices, decorative friezes, and large, multi-paned windows.

Location & Access Logistics

Glen Manor House is situated at 350 Cory's Lane in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. It is approximately 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) east of the Portsmouth town center. Access is via Cory's Lane, which is off RI-114. Parking is available on-site in a designated lot. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus stop is approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away on RI-114, requiring a walk or taxi to the property.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was built between 1915 and 1917 for Frank W. Matteson, a textile magnate. The architect was John Russell Pope. Its original purpose was as a private residence. The site itself is part of the coastal plain of Rhode Island, with underlying bedrock typical of the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the grounds, which include formal gardens and waterfront access. Interior tours are sometimes available, depending on event schedules. Photography of the exterior architecture is permitted. The property is often used for private events, which may restrict public access on certain dates.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are typically available during public access periods or events. Shade is provided by mature trees on the grounds. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable in the area. There are no on-site food vendors; visitors should plan to bring their own provisions or dine in nearby Portsmouth.

Best Time to Visit

For exterior photography, early morning or late afternoon light offers optimal illumination of the facade. The best months for visiting are May through October, when weather conditions are most favorable for outdoor exploration. There are no tide-dependent activities associated with the house itself.

Facts & Legends

The property was once owned by the Sisters of Mercy, who used it as a retreat center before it was sold to the current management entity. A local anecdote suggests that the original owner, Frank W. Matteson, spared no expense in its construction, importing materials and craftsmen from Europe.